Tips on Selecting Dental Products

Selecting Dental Products:

Toothbrushes:

So many different toothbrushes that are different shapes, sizes, and textures it’s hard to know which ones are your best choice. Deciding can be difficult, but dentists usually agree on these tips that will make it all a bit easier to choose:

• Smaller-headed, soft-bristled brushes generally will remove plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth better than harder-bristled brushes.
• Go based on feel for a toothbrush at the size and shape that is comfortable and fits into your mouth the easiest for you.
• For many, a powered toothbrush is a good option as it reaches all of those hard-to-reach corners.
• Replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear or about ever 2-3 months at the most frequent.
• Ensure your child is using the proper toothbrush also. Speak to your dentist about what toothbrush ought to be using as it changes with growth. A wrong-sized toothbrush can damage their gums and not clean teeth properly.
• Being easier to reach the harder-to-reach places can make the powered toothbrush more appealing, but a regular one can work just fine, too.

Toothpaste:

As with toothbrushes there are so many different kinds of toothpaste advertising different things it’s hard to know which ones work for you. They promise whitening, extra fluoride, plaque removal, tartar reduction, etc. No matter what toothpaste you choose there are some basics most all dentists agree on a toothpaste having. All toothpaste should contain fluoride unless you are instructed otherwise by your dentist. If you want to use a toothpaste without fluoride speak with your dentist before making the switch.

For children, the taste of toothpaste is important as to whether they will actually use that toothpaste or not. There are many flavors out there like bubblegum, chocolate, mint, etc. Choose one your child will use first as that is the most important step for any toothpaste to work: ensure that it’s used. When choosing for yourself or another adult focus on benefits first. If you have sensitive teeth then maybe a toothpaste for sensitive teeth will help.

Mouthwashes & Mouth Rinses:

Mouthwash and fluoride mouth rinse are two entirely different products. Anti-bacterial mouthwashes control plaque and bacteria better and freshen breath. Fluoride rinses coat the teeth with fluoride to strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. Many types of mouthwash contain alcohol and are not appropriate for children under age 6.

Floss:

Flossing is critical for healthy gums. Floss is available in many various thicknesses, coatings, and flavors. If you have trouble using floss wound around your fingers, then get some holders as most grocery or drug stores provide holders that can help you use the floss more consistently. Everyone, including children, should floss once per day, usually before bed. However, if another time is more convenient then do it then over not doing it at all.

Water Irrigation Devices:

Water irrigation devices can remove food from the hardest-to-reach places in the mouth. Most children or adults probably don’t need them, however, teenagers (or even adults) with braces or other orthodontic devices may need to use them. Using water irrigation tools with those devices has shown that less gingivitis and other problems occur during their use.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about us visit us here or call us 909-465-1016. The Ramona Dentistry Team “Where Family Comes First”